Do you prepare your coffee the same way every morning? Whether you take your java black, with skim, almond or soy milk — or with sugar or sweetener — consider an addition with added health benefits.
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Certain spices can provide surprising health boosts, along with amazing flavor. Natural sweeteners and flavours such as vanilla or coconut sugar can bring your coffee to life without chemicals.
These 10 ingredients will elevate the flavour of your coffee and get your day started on the right foot.
1. Cinnamon
For an all-over warm, cozy feeling, add a dash of sweet-yet-spicy cinnamon to your brew. Cinnamon can help lower blood sugar, improve LDL (bad) cholesterol and is a good source of vitamin K and iron.
2. Ginger
Ginger root powder can give your morning cup of joe an earthy, citrus flavor, and it can reduce inflammation, increase metabolism and aid in immune health. Add a dash (1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon) to your coffee with milk or your other favorites.
3. Cacao Powder
If you’re a chocolate fanatic, then try sprinkling some cacao powder into your morning brew. Cacao is loaded with antioxidants and is a good source of protein, potassium, zinc, dietary fiber, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, copper and manganese. Choose unsweetened cacao powder, which has fewer calories than the kind with sugar. Add 2 teaspoons to 8 ounces of coffee, and you’ll have a delicious, homemade mocha-infused brew.
4. Cardamom
Sprinkling cardamom into your coffee adds sweet and floral, yet spicy and citrus, elements as well as numerous health benefits. Cardamom is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, dietary fiber, iron and manganese. Studies also link cardamom to good cardiovascular health, and it possesses antidepressant properties as well.
5. Coconut Sugar
For an alternative coffee sweetener, use coconut sugar. Coconut sugar is said to be more healthful than plain sugar because it contains minerals and other nutrients and has a lower glycemic index.
6. Organic Maple Syrup
Organic maple syrup can boost the immune system and aid in digestion. Maple syrup is less likely to cause bloating and indigestion than processed sugar is. It’s loaded with polyphenols, which work as antioxidants. Maple syrup also contains essential nutrients, such as zinc and manganese, to help keep white blood cell levels up, increasing your resistance to colds and infections. In addition, this natural brown sweetener pairs beautifully with unsweetened almond milk.
7. Protein Powder
If you’re looking to add more protein to your diet – especially in the morning – this is an easy way to do it. We recommend vanilla protein powder for easy, smooth flavour. Add 1/2- to 1-scoop protein powder to 1 cup of hot coffee, and then stir in 1/4-cup of your favorite milk or creamer.
8. Coconut Oil
Adding 1 teaspoon of coconut oil to your morning coffee can boost metabolism, energy, mood and brain function. It adds a creamy texture and deep coconut flavor and is ideal if you can’t (or don’t) drink dairy. Add 1 teaspoon coconut oil, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon to your coffee.
9. Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract has a rich vanilla taste and contains numerous antioxidants. Use 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla instead of sugar. The vanillin in vanilla has been said to lower cholesterol and inflammation. (PS: Almond extract tastes great in coffee too!)
10. Maca Root Powder
This superfood is vegan. It’s raw and nutrient-dense, aids in stress-relief and enhances hormone health. It’s perfect to add to smoothies, baked goods and especially coffee. Stir it in your morning cofee to create a creamy texture and a butterscotch-like flavor.